Vehicle Segment:
Sport touring motorcycle, positioned as a high-performance, technologically advanced tourer.
Competitors:
Competed with other large-displacement sport touring bikes of the era, such as Honda VFR, Kawasaki GTR, and Yamaha FJR.
Defining Characteristics:
Flat-four engine, Telelever front suspension, Paralever rear drive, comfortable ergonomics for long-distance riding, robust build quality.
Manual Importance:
Essential for owners and independent workshops to maintain and repair the K1200RS effectively, ensuring longevity and optimal performance. Covers complex systems unique to BMW.
Covered Models:
All K1200RS models for the 1997 model year, across all engine variants, trim levels, and transmission options.
Estimated Page Count:
~500-700 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Type:
Workshop Repair and Service Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, valve train, crankshaft and bearings, piston and connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, exhaust system.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox overhaul and repair, final drive (shaft drive), differential.
Chassis Suspension:
Front suspension (Telelever), rear suspension (Paralever), wheel bearings, steering system, brake system (front and rear calipers, master cylinders, ABS system if applicable).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, starter motor, alternator, lighting system (headlight, taillight, indicators), instrument cluster, electronic control units (ECU), sensors, fuses, relays.
Bodywork Fittings:
Fairings, seat, fuel tank, body panels, mirrors, luggage systems.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine checks, oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter service, brake fluid replacement, coolant flush and replacement, drive shaft lubrication, wheel and tire inspection, valve clearance adjustment.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilding, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair and replacement.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Fault finding procedures for engine performance issues, electrical system malfunctions, brake system problems, and other common issues. Diagnostic codes and interpretations.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specific BMW special tools required for various maintenance and repair tasks.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to full engine and gearbox rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures for professional technicians and experienced enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
16-valve DOHC flat-four ( Boxer-4)
Bore X Stroke:
70.5 mm x 75 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
100 hp (73.5 kW) @ 7500 rpm
Torque:
107 Nm (79 lb-ft) @ 6000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic MA 2.2 fuel injection with electronic ignition.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 API SG or higher motorcycle specific oil
Oil Capacity With Filter:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts)
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled
Coolant Type:
BMW approved ethylene glycol based coolant mixture (50% coolant, 50% distilled water)
Length:
Approx. 2300 mm (90.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 900 mm (35.4 in) over handlebars
Height:
Approx. 1360 mm (53.5 in) at handlebars
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1570 mm (61.8 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 246 kg (542 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 273 kg (602 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 490 kg (1080 lbs)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
21 Liters (5.5 US Gallons), including 3.5 Liter reserve
Braking System:
Dual 320 mm discs with 4-piston calipers (front), Single 285 mm disc with 2-piston caliper (rear). Optional ABS II anti-lock braking system.
ABS:
Optional ABS II (Anti-lock Braking System)
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, amber turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Aluminum twin-spar frame
Audio System:
Optional integrated radio/cassette or CD player system available on some models.
Instrumentation:
Analog tachometer and speedometer, digital odometer, trip meters, clock, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, gear indicator, warning lights.
ABS:
ABS II system, a sophisticated anti-lock braking system for its time.
Diagnostic Interface:
Utilizes electronic diagnostic systems accessible via specific BMW connectors and software.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2-3 years
Final Drive Oil:
SAE 80W-90 API GL-5 hypoid gear oil
Common Complaints:
ABS pump failure (if equipped), fuel pump relay issues, occasional electrical gremlins, clutch slave cylinder leaks, Telelever seal wear.
Maintenance Focus Areas:
Regular lubrication of the drive shaft splines, checking fuel line integrity, and monitoring the ABS system for proper function.
Manufacturer:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW Motorrad)
Predecessors:
Followed the K1100LT/RS models, representing an evolution in the K-series sport touring line.
Successors:
The K1200RS was later replaced by the K1200GT and then the K1300GT.
Production Years:
1997-2000 (K589 generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
Industry Acclaim:
Highly regarded for its performance, comfort, and engineering prowess during its production run.
Long Distance Comfort:
Consistently praised in motorcycle reviews for its excellent long-distance touring capabilities and rider comfort.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets relevant emissions standards for the 1997 model year.
